Marbella East Area Guide

Marbella East, extending from the eastern side of Marbella town to Cabopino on the Mijas border, is one of the most attractive and diverse residential areas in Marbella. The area is known for its 15 kilometres of sandy beaches, golf courses, and exclusive residential communities. Its easy access to the lively town centre makes it a perfect choice for families, retirees, and investors.

This guide provides all the information about Marbella East and explains why it’s a great place to buy a property.

Which Areas are Located in Marbella East?

Marbella East is made up of various residential areas, each offering different facilities and amenities. Here’s an overview of the main residential areas:

Los Monteros

An exclusive beachfront area just a few minutes from Marbella town. Los Monteros is home to some of the most luxurious villas in the area, many with direct beach access. It’s also where you’ll find the famous Hotel Los Monteros, Don Carlos Hotel and La Cabane Beach Club.

El Rosario

A popular gated community offering a mix of villas and townhouses. El Rosario is known for its family-friendly feel, proximity to international schools, and excellent tennis clubs.

Las Chapas

This area offers a wide selection of apartments and villas. It’s quieter than some other areas, making it ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle close to nature.

Marbesa

A beachside community filled with traditional villas and some new modern homes. Marbesa has a laid-back vibe, and its proximity to the sea makes it a favourite for second-home buyers.

Elviria

The most developed neighborhood in Marbella East. Elviria has a vibrant commercial centre, restaurants, supermarkets, and the internationally renowned Nikki Beach. It also offers a variety of villas and apartments.

Hacienda Las Chapas

One of Marbella East’s gated communities, known for its large villas, spacious plots, and security. It offers both privacy and proximity to the beach.

La Mairena

Located in the hills above Elviria, La Mairena is surrounded by a UNESCO-protected cork forest. It offers panoramic views, peaceful surroundings, and luxury apartments and villas. It’s ideal for those who love nature but want facilities like international schools, golf courses and tennis clubs.

Bahía de Marbella

Bahía de Marbella is an exclusive gated community with luxurious villas and apartments, offering direct beach access and stunning sea views.

Rio Real

Known for its golf course and frontline golf apartments. The area is also home to the Rio Real Golf Hotel.

Cabopino

This area in Marbella East is known for its charming marina and frontline penthouses with sea views. Cabopino residents have access to some of the finest beaches in Marbella.

Properties in Marbella East

From frontline beach villas to apartments with beautiful sea views, the options are impressive.

• Villas: Beachfront homes in Los Monteros and Marbesa command premium prices, while hillside areas like El Rosario and Hacienda Las Chapas offer larger plots and excellent privacy.
• Apartments & Townhouses: Elviria and La Mairena feature high-quality apartment complexes with swimming pools, gyms, and sea views.
• New Developments: Several luxury developments are under construction, particularly in Elviria and the Cabopino area.

Prices are generally lower than the property prices in Marbella’s Golden Mile or Puerto Banús, offering better value for spacious homes close to the beach.

What about the Accessibility and Public Transport in Marbella East?

Marbella East is well-connected and easily accessible:

• Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport: Around 35–40 minutes by car via the AP-7 motorway.
• Marbella Centre: 5–15 minutes, depending on the neighbourhood.
• Public Transport: Several local bus routes run along the coast, connecting Elviria and surrounding areas to Marbella town.
• Uber and Bolt are some of the ride-hailing services that are easily available.

The area also has good road access to nearby towns like Mijas, Fuengirola, and Estepona.

Is Marbella East Good for families?

Yes, it’s one of the best family-friendly areas on the Costa del Sol, with great schools, hospitals and lots of options for outdoor activities.

International Schools in Marbella East

Families will find several excellent educational options:

• The private English International College (EIC) in Elviria uses the British curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.
• Colegio Alborán: Private Spanish school with a strong international student body, located near Las Chapas.

Other nearby options include international schools in central Marbella, such as Aloha College and Swans International School, both within driving distance.

Hospitals in Marbella East

• Costa del Sol Hospital – The main public hospital in the area, offering comprehensive medical care.
• Several private clinics, dentists, and wellness centres.

Outdoor and Sports Activities

Marbella East is an ideal location for those who enjoy outdoor activities and sports.

Golf Courses

• Cabopino Golf Club
• Santa Clara Golf
• Santa Maria Golf Club
• Marbella Golf & Country Club

Tennis & Padel Clubs

• Royal Tennis Club Marbella
• Los Monteros Racquet Club
• Don Carlos Tennis and Sports Club

Water Sports

• Paddleboarding and jet skiing at Cabopino Marina

Hiking Trails and Nature Walks

• Explore the Artola Dunes at Cabopino beach
• Hiking trails in the hills of La Mairena with panoramic sea views.

Family-Friendly Attractions

• Aventura Amazonia (Elviria) – A tree-top adventure park with zip lines for all ages.
• Selwo Aventura Park – A wildlife park just a short drive away in Estepona.

What are the Beaches like in Marbella East?

Marbella East is renowned for having the best beaches in Marbella, with long stretches of golden sand and clear waters.

Top Beaches

• Playa de los Monteros
• El Pinillo
• Las Chapas Beach
• Elviria Beach
• Rio Real Beach
• Alicate Beach
• Cabopino Beach

What about Restaurants and Nightlife in Marbella East?

While more relaxed than central Marbella, Marbella East has an impressive selection of restaurants, beach clubs, and local eateries.

Top Dining Spots

• Nikki Beach (Elviria)
• The Beach House (Elviria)
• Simbad (Marbesa)
• Luuma Beach (El Rosario)

For nightlife, Nikki Beach is the main hotspot. For quieter evenings, most areas have a selection of bars and wine lounges.

How about Shopping in Marbella East?

The commercial center of Marbella East is Elviria.. Here you’ll find everything from supermarkets to salons and fitness centres.

• Elviria Commercial Centre: Home to banks, boutiques, restaurants, and grocery stores.
• For more upscale shopping, the La Cañada mall in central Marbella is just 10–15 minutes away by car.

What is the weather like in Marbella East?

Sunny and mild year-round, with hot summers and very mild winters—typical Mediterranean climate.

Pros and Cons of Living in Marbella East

Living in Marbella East has pros and cons, which are listed below.

Pros:

• Stunning beaches and natural landscapes
• Family-friendly neighborhoods
• Good schools and services
• Great value property compared to West Marbella
• Peaceful lifestyle close to the coast

Cons:

• Less nightlife than central Marbella
• Fewer high-end designer shops
• Hilly terrain in some areas may not suit everyone

Why Buy Property in Marbella East?

• Excellent location close to beaches, golf courses, and international schools
• Good infrastructure and essential services
• Properties with large plots and panoramic views
• Growing popularity with families and digital nomads moving here
• Potential for long-term capital growth

Marbella East Property Market Trends 2025

As of early 2025, Marbella East remains one of the most in-demand areas for residential buyers on the Costa del Sol.

Key Trends

• Average starting price for villas: €1M
• Apartments in Elviria or Cabopino starting price: €300,000
• Continued demand from International buyers
• Increase in off-plan and boutique developments
• Strong rental returns, especially in summer months

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a move to Spain, investing in a holiday home, or searching for a permanent residence, Marbella East offers the perfect mix of lifestyle, natural beauty, and convenience that makes it one of the best areas to buy luxury real estate on the Costa del Sol.

Get in touch with us for inquiries about properties in East Marbella.